Serie A - Conte: Pogba can play in Pirlo role

Paul Pogba will be asked to dictate play for Juventus this season when Andrea Pirlo is unavailable, says boss Antonio Conte.

The Frenchman is currently being used on the left of the three central midfielders given the injury to Claudio Marchisio.

But Conte, speaking to the Corriere dello Sport, thinks he has the ability to be given the playmaker responsibility if necessary.

“Pirlo is a champion who can’t be equalled and there is nobody in Italy, even if some are getting better, with his characteristics, his direction or who can give such peace of mind to the squad," stated the coach.

“That being said, Pogba can fill the vice-Pirlo role. He already did that last season and, if there is the need, he can mask the absence of Andrea even if they have different characteristics.

“Paul is a modern midfielder who can play in any midfield role because of his physique, fitness and his ability to break into attack.

“He is a complete player, although one who still has big margins of improvement to make.”

The 20-year-old, now a full France international, joined Juve from Manchester United a year ago.

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